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Show STANDING OUT ABOVE THE CROWD AT GRADUATION By ALYSON JOHNSON A&E Reporter A common misconception is that if you have a college degree, you’ll get a job after graduation. A study from 2011 shows that over 53 percent of college graduates were unemployed or working in a job that did not require a bachelor’s degree. Recently released data from the American Consumer Survey in 2014 found that number fell to 33 percent. Recent graduates entering the job field with a career mindset and previous work experience are more likely to snag the job. Career Services has numerous resources available to students to help them be as prepared as possible. Dr. Winn Stanger, director of Career Services, said there are three things students need to know before starting the preparation process. “They need to know who they are, where they want to go and how to get there,” Stanger said. To help students understand who they are and what their strengths are, Career Services offers a variety of assessments including personality, strengths and interest quizzes that are always free and available to students. “The assessments can be helpful for them in describing to an employer who MyWeberMedia.com | December 3, 2018 | 27 they are and why they should hire them,” Stanger said. Students can meet with counselors to improve their résumés and be pointed in the direction that best prepares them for future job opportunities. Career Services holds several career events each semester, which give students an opportunity to introduce themselves and engage with employers. Since the majority of employers in the career field look for previous work experience, internships are a critical tool in preparing students. In a recent study, 93 percent of managers and executives said they were more likely to hire students with internships Congratulations Graduates! MONIKA CLARKE | The Signpost than students without. Using the resources available in the Career Services helps students learn the skills necessary to differentiate themselves from others competing for the same position. The Career Services offers mock interviews for students to receive feedback and learn skills that help them be more confident in who they are and what they have to offer. Stanger said most students who go into a job interview after only doing one or two interviews in their life will most likely be nervous. If they aren’t prepared, they won’t do as well as the student who has practiced and prepared. Comment on this story at signpost.mywebermedia.com Best wishes as you take the next step in achieving your dream. |